The purpose of this memorandum is to respond to a Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) request for expansion of current policy regarding safe sleep practices.  

Current policy requires the resource provider to review and agree to adhere to the practices of the SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES RECOMMENDED BY THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS, CD-117, during the initial home visit and at each license renewal.  

• Foster Family Home Licensing Rules regarding sleeping arrangements include:  
• Foster children should never sleep in a bed with foster parents  Each foster child under age two (2) shall have a separate bed  

Policy is now revised to include that the worker will discuss the dangers of co-sleeping with an infant and direct the resource parent to information presented in the PowerPoint, SIDS and Safe Sleep, located on the State Technical Assistance Team web site, http://www.dss.mo.gov/stat/statpres/prevention.htm.  

Immediately with publication of this memorandum, staff will utilize the updated CD-117 and add to their discussion of safe sleep practices the dangers of co-sleeping with an infant.